reflexology in pregnancy

Hi was wondering if anyone had any comments positive / negative on reflexology in late pregnancy. Now 30 wks. Heard that it can reduce blood pressure which was a problem for me in my last pregnancy and also general relax (prob necessary as last birth exp not the best, now getting stressed just thinking about it all happening again). Anyone know anywhere good in bradford / leeds area?

I have been having reflexology from the start and it is fantastic. If nothing else it is so so so relaxing and lovely for your feet and ankles.

I am personally sceptical about the supposed links to parts of the body but it works somehow! I went with a sinus headache and after rubbing my feet she told me she had worked on the sinus area without me telling her. She also comments that my back is sore in specific places and once that I had earache!

It also works - wheteher directly - or through relaxation - to ease constipation and for me heartburn.

I recently picked up a flyer about maternity and baby reflexology, and will definitely treat myself - I've enjoyed reflexology in the past, for relaxation and health benefits (I used to test my reflexologist by not telling her what was wrong, and she always spontaneously got it right - amazing!)

I'm also going to find out more about baby reflexology, as apparently they teach the parents to do it and the key benefit is a baby that sleeps well - sounds perfect!

There must be some association of approved reflexologists, so see if you can find out who that body recommends in your area. Good luck, and enjoy it!

i am 34 weeks and went to my first reflexology session today.it was the most relaxing thing ever!!! not sure if it will benefit other parts of the body as she said it would because its too early to tell.however it was the most relaxing/heavenly hour ive ever had, and booked for another next week too!!!

I've been alternating reflexology and massage every 3 weeks since TTC and throughout my pregnancy (now 38+4) and I think it is wonderful. Even if you don't believe in all the links with the rest of the body it is so relaxing it really doesn't matter. Having said that the part of my foot that is supposed to equate to my uterus has become increasingly sore over the weeks so even I am beginning to concede that there might be something in it).

I've just came back from a session this afternoon. I was feeling rubbish this morning but fell asleep 10 minutes into the reflexology session and now feeling much better!

If I go overdue I will definitely be booking myself in for another session!

One thing I would say is be careful about the position you are in during the session in later pregnancy. It is so relaxing that it can send your blood pressure rather low (which is mainly a good thing). Mine went so low that I nearly passed out so now I ask to have mine done lying on my side rather than in a semi-seated position.

Sorry, I don't know of anyone in your area - but like all these things, some are better than others so definitely worth trying to get personal recommendations.

Also, apparently good to get the reflexologist to show you points for your birth partner to press for pain relief during labour.

I can't stand my feet being touched so a friend of mine that's a holistic therapist is giving me hand reflexology - it's bliss! As lots of people have said, I'm sceptical of the links but it feels so nice.

I'm currently using this and aromatherapy as pregnancy-friendly treatments for depression, seem to be working well so far

Hi, I have not tried it since being PG as am only early days, but it certainly worked for me TTC, not sure if was the clearing of the "pipes" or just the relaxation. I will most definitely be visiting my lady again very soon!

Hello Loulou99, I have tried reflexolgy in the start of my pregnancy. It wasn't bad but it wasn't so relaxing as other members said. I think that depends on the person that is doing it. Also it was quite expensive 40 pounds for 50 minutes. And you need to do it at least 2 a week so that you can have results.

I started having reflexology when trying to conceive and it has really worked for me. I was very uptight and a big worry wart, I am now much more relaxed and 23 wks pregnant. I have it done every fortnight and aim to carry on throughout the pregnancy and hopefully after the birth (will probably drop it down to once a month then though). I think it's great and would, and have, recommended it to many.

Hi, I'm a reflexologist in Pudsey, Leeds and trained in maternity reflexology. My advice is to check with the therapist before agreeing to treatment that they have the appropriate qualifications to perform maternity reflexology, insurance, experience and are member of a professional organisation such as the Federation of Holistic Therapists( www.fht.org.uk ).The fht also have lists of therapists within certain areas, so you can search for one near you. Also coming up in the near future is a special 2 for 1 promotion is in the October 2008 issue of Pregnancy, Baby & You, which goes on sale from 8 September. so you can have 2 treatments for the price of one with particpating therapists with the FHT.

I practice reflexology for pregnant clients and fertility from The Lawrence Clinic Pudsey, Leeds. my website is www.reflexologypudsey.co.uk. It is extremly relaxing and beneficial for all sorts of pregnancy related problems. Try the Federation of Holistic Therapists website for reputable therapists in your area.